About Għajnsielem
Għajnsielem is the first village most visitors encounter after arriving at Mġarr Harbour, rising above the port with a mixture of historic buildings, churches and modern village life.
Gozo's villages are working communities as well as places to visit. The best way to experience Għajnsielem is to combine its main sights with a walk through the centre, the parish square and the surrounding countryside.
Għajnsielem at a glance
Photographs
The gateway to Gozo
Għajnsielem begins almost immediately above Mġarr Harbour. The village's position means that it has always been closely connected with movement between Gozo and Malta, and today it is the first community many visitors see after leaving the ferry.
From spring to village
The name Għajnsielem refers to a spring associated with the area. The settlement grew significantly as Mġarr became Gozo's principal harbour, giving the village a strategic and practical importance that it retains today.
Fort Chambray
Fort Chambray dominates the hillside above the harbour. Built by the Knights of St John in the eighteenth century, it formed part of the defences protecting the entrance to Gozo and remains one of the area's most prominent historic structures.
Village churches and squares
The parish church of Our Lady of Loreto and the Lourdes Chapel are important landmarks in the village. Together with the squares and streets around them, they provide a good introduction to Għajnsielem's built heritage.
Visiting Għajnsielem
Take time to explore beyond the main road. Village squares, parish churches, traditional limestone houses, small streets and views across the countryside often provide the most rewarding parts of a visit.
For food and refreshments, see the e-Malta Gozo food guide. For planning a wider island visit, use the Gozo Route Planner.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Għajnsielem?
Għajnsielem is the first village most visitors encounter after arriving at Mġarr Harbour, rising above the port with a mixture of historic buildings, churches and modern village life.
What is Għajnsielem known for?
Għajnsielem begins almost immediately above Mġarr Harbour. The village's position means that it has always been closely connected with movement between Gozo and Malta, and today it is the first community many visitors see after leaving the ferry.
Is Għajnsielem worth visiting?
Yes. It offers a different view of Gozo from the island's beaches and major attractions, with local streets, parish life, traditional architecture and access to the surrounding countryside.
Can I combine Għajnsielem with other places in Gozo?
Yes. The village is a useful starting point for exploring nearby countryside, coast and other parts of Gozo. Check the e-Malta guides for beaches, viewpoints, history and archaeology and walks and countryside.
Explore the villages of Gozo
Continue to another village and discover a different side of the island.